Craniosynostosis in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Analysis of Subtype Patterns, Syndromic Risk, and Postoperative Outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Craniosynostosis, the premature fusion of cranial sutures, results in skull deformities and potential complications such as increased intracranial pressure. Although well documented globally, local epidemiological studies and management strategies remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and surgical outcomes of craniosynostosis at King Abdullah Specialized Children's Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted, analyzing patients diagnosed with craniosynostosis from October 2019 to June 2023. Demographic, clinical, and surgical data were extracted from electronic medical records. Statistical comparisons between syndromic and nonsyndromic cases were performed using appropriate tests, with significance set at a value less than 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients were included, with a male predominance (70%) and a mean age at surgery of 26 months. Trigonocephaly (19%), anterior plagiocephaly (18%), and scaphocephaly (18%) were the most common subtypes. Syndromic cases (23%) were more likely to be complex (78% versus 32%, < 0.001) and had higher rates of papilledema (33% versus 5.1%, = 0.004) and increased intracranial pressure (33% versus 8.5%, = 0.02). Surgical outcomes were favorable, with low complication rates and no postoperative mortality. Syndromic patients had longer hospital stays (median 8 versus 7 d, = 0.002), but intraoperative blood loss was comparable between groups ( = 0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insights into craniosynostosis in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the need for earlier diagnosis and genetic studies due to high consanguinity rates. The findings contribute to the global understanding of craniosynostosis and may help improve clinical management strategies.